Massachusetts Scholarships

Massachusetts high school seniors who are U.S. citizens, demonstrate environmental leadership, and plan interdisciplinary environmental studies with at least 25% of college coursework focused on environmental subjects may apply to become Henry David Thoreau Scholars. Up to 10 scholars receive awards of up to $6,250 per year for four years, plus eligibility for an environmental internship stipend. Scholars also join the HDT Network for mentorship and professional opportunities. Submit the scholarship application with required essays and documentation by the posted deadline. The Henry David Thoreau Foundation supports young leaders committed to environmental welfare.

Massachusetts residents enrolled full time at participating independent colleges or nursing schools in Massachusetts may receive Gilbert Matching Student Grant awards. Grants range from $200 to $2,500 per academic year based on financial need. Eligible students must be U.S. citizens or Title IV-eligible non-citizens who have not yet earned a bachelor's degree. Dependent applicants must have a parent who has been a Massachusetts resident for 12 months prior to the academic year; independent students must meet the same residency requirement themselves. Apply through the financial aid office at your participating institution.

Massachusetts residents who completed at least two years of service at a golf course in the state may apply for the Francis Ouimet Scholarship Fund as high school seniors or undergraduates planning full-time study at an accredited institution. Need-based awards vary in amount and are renewable for up to four years. Selection considers academic achievement, leadership, character, golf service, essays, interviews, and recommendations. Request an application through the Ouimet website; eligible students receive the application link by email. Financial need is determined via FAFSA and CSS Profile.

Massachusetts residents under age 22 who participated in the GEAR UP Massachusetts early intervention program and graduated from a Massachusetts public high school may receive GEAR UP scholarship consideration. Award amounts vary and are at least the federal Pell minimum, based on state aid program eligibility. No separate scholarship application is required beyond completing the FAFSA each year. Applicants must be admitted to an eligible institution, enrolled full- or part-time in a certificate, associate's, or bachelor's degree program, and not be in default on federal or state student loans. The program is administered by the Massachusetts Office of Student Financial Assistance.

Massachusetts high school students who score Advanced on one MCAS assessment and Proficient or Advanced on the other two, ranking in the top 25 percent of their school district, are automatically considered for the merit-based John and Abigail Adams Scholarship. No separate application is required. Recipients receive a tuition credit toward undergraduate study at a Massachusetts public college or university for up to eight semesters within six years of high school graduation. The dollar value depends on the institution attended. Complete the FAFSA or Massachusetts equivalent and enroll full time in an eligible certificate, associate, or bachelor's program. The program recognizes high achievement on the 10th grade MCAS test and supports access to Massachusetts public higher education.

Residents of Hampden or Hampshire County, Massachusetts for at least five years who are admitted to or attending an accredited law school may apply for the Hampden County Bar Association John F. Moriarty Scholarship. Awards are merit- and need-based. Amounts vary based on available funding. Preference is given to Hampden County residents. Complete the online application with documents demonstrating academic performance and financial need. The scholarship was established by the Hampden County Bar Association in memory of Superior Court Judge John F. Moriarty of Holyoke.